Deltec skimmers were once considered the best available. They still do perform, but with the significant changes in skimmer tech, namely enlarged volutes (voh-loots) and bubble plates, they have not been seen in the same light as they once were. Gone are the days of multiple Eheims slapped on large “rocket skimmers”. Deltec realized this [...]
Deltec skimmers were once considered the best available. They still do perform, but with the significant changes in skimmer tech, namely enlarged volutes (voh-loots) and bubble plates, they have not been seen in the same light as they once were.
Gone are the days of multiple Eheims slapped on large “rocket skimmers”. Deltec realized this and has developed their very own OEM skimmer pump featuring an enlarged volute capable of drawing over 1500lph at only 25 watts [and will be even more powerful on US 60hz]. The photos shown here depict an AP1004 utilizing two of these new pumps instead of the usual 4 Eheims.
The pumps currently being used are custom prototypes. Once finalized they will be made into molds for mass production. At the moment the blurry photo looks to indicate an AquaBee 5000 motor with heavy modifications. Deltec is adamant that the final pump used will not be this and that they have moved away from their old prototype design that we showed you here.
The new Deltecs will also feature a dual chamber bubble plate. This bubble plate will be recirculated to reduce back pressure on the skimmer pumps allowing higher air intake levels, while also separating clean water. This will allow higher flow through rates without increasing turbulence and ensuring untreated water is being processed by the pumps. Deltec states this will be a patented design, but at the moment there is no information regarding applications or granted patents.
When we asked about a new neck transition or potential conical design Deltec responded by saying, “As long as there is no turbulence in the body there is no real quantitative benefit.” In my experience a neck reduction of 50% taking place over just 2″ tends to create turbulence, but we will have to wait and see how this new design performs.
Initial pump molds arrive this coming week and European shelves may be stocked with the second generation skimmers in a 702 equivalent in ~4 weeks. Don’t expect to see these in the US anytime too soon. It will be at least 3-4 weeks after the European release date.
There is also talk of this new skimmer pump in a flow application, capable of pushing 6,000lph or 1,500gph. No word on electric consumption with no air processing or any maximum head numbers.
Photos via D-D
